Climbing is less dangerous than you might think….

Climbing can seem like a really intense sport. However, if we exclude the outliers; people that are free soloing or doing crazy stunts, the statics paint a very different picture. There’s an average of 30 deaths per year worldwide and of these many are preventable.

Widening our lens to include all climbing related injuries the statics still look pretty favorable. In the US out of the estimated 10.35 million climbers there are around 25,000 recorded climbing injures per year. This makes climbing safer than many activities including driving, cycling and even scuba diving!  The chart below summarizes statics found from a study done in 1993 and climbing statics

Also, the type of climbing is a major factor to consider when looking at your chance of injury. Indoor climbing is significantly safer than outdoor climbing because of the controlled environment. Many elements, such as loose rock or improperly set gear are eliminated. The majority of major injuries that occur outdoors happen during descent, so it’s important, before you go up to have a proper figure 8 knot and ensure your partner’s belay device is setup properly.

SAFETY

Climbing is all about safety and redundancy. There’s equipment and common climbing procedures in place to make the activity as safe as possible. Below is a list of common procedures and equipment that should be followed when climbing:

• Partner safety checks — check the climbers figure 8 knot and the belayers belay setup

• Tie a stopper knot at the end of the rope - this prevents the rope from slipping through the belay device

• Communicate with your partner - let them know when you’re clipping or planning to try a difficult move

• Always keep one hand on the break hand

• Always uses proper gear: helmets, harness, stick-clip (when needed), carabiners, belay device and crash pads

🔥🔥🔥🔥 Hot Take 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Having small hands is just as big an advantage as height.

PS: These are not my personal opinions - this is meant to spark discussion

My Thoughts

So, have I ever gotten hurt rock-climbing? No ✊🪵, but I have known a few people that have had some pretty serious injuries. All that to say, the possible is there and it’s important to acknowledge. That being said there are tons of things that could hurt or even kill you. Sitting around all day binge watching shows, drinking and eating fast food is arguably more dangerous long term, so why not do something fun.

I think as long as your cautious on new climbs and stay within your limits your chances of injury are pretty low. When I climb outdoors I’m not trying to send a 5.13 (yet) because I haven’t been able to send even a 5.12 in a gym.

As a climber, you should always, ALWAYS double-check your gear. Don't get too complacent with repetition. Realize that when you're belaying, you are quite literally holding your friend's life in your hands. If at any point you’re not comfortable with something voice that and make the necessary adjustments or come down off the wall and reassess.